Conduit installation on vehicles



Feb. 16, 1932. J BUUR 1,845,826

CONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original Filed March 27. 1925 l0 Sheets-Sheet l 52 ll' f f la 33 42 olmqyMQM/ Mw# ATTORNEYS Feb. 16, 1932. J. BUUR f 1,845,825

y GONDUIT INSTALLATION 0N VEHICLES original Filed March 27, 1923 10 Sheets-Sheet 2 s [4J A l 45 "WIM/Vm; lum M "WM 'WH mmm i "Mlm iltlllillhi.. n 4 wl I 1N VENTOR J. lalJUFe (JONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original Filed March 27. 1923 10 Sheets-Sheet 3 llllllilllllllmlllllll 73 7g 79 INVENTOR Jara/t z'jur Feb. 16, 1932. 1 BUUR 1,845,826

CONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original Filed March 27. 1923 l0 Sheets-Sheet 4 fili .ddii

INVENTOR M4 ATTORNEYS Y Feb. 16, 1932. I 1 BUUR 1,845,826

CONDUT INSTALLATION oN VEHICLES y l0 Sheets-Shet 5 Original Filed March 27, 1923 foe 761 "Mnl i" 1M i Hummm "mlmmllmil H111 IN VEN TOR Feb. 16, 1932. J. BIJUR CONDUITA INSTLLATION ON VEHICLES 'f Original Filed March 27, 1923 10 Sheets-Sheet 6- INVENTOR .fafa/) /u?" 5 f1/w ATTORNEYS Feb. 16, 1932. 1 J. UUR 1,845,826

CONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original Filed March 27, 1923 10 Sheets-Sheet '7 1 NVEN TOR 14u TTORNEYS Feb. 16, 1932. J BUUR 1,845,826

CONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original' Filed March 27, 1923 10 Sheets-Sheet 8 m I. WEEE.

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INVENTOR .Y/f// BY M ATTORNEYS Feb. 16, 1.932. J, BIJUR 1,845.826 coNDum INSTALLATION'ON VEHICLES original Filed March 27, 1923 1o sheets-sheet 9 520 INVENTOR .aJg/J/z ,5w

Feb. 16, 1932, J. BIJUR 1,845,825

CONDUIT INSTALLATION ON VEHICLES Original Filed March 27. 1923 l0 Sheets-Sheet 10 I INVENTOR ATTORNEYS Patented Feb. 16, 1932 UNITED STATES PATENT Nori-ice JOSEPH'. BIJUR, OF NEW YORK, N. Y., .ASSIGNOIL BYKMESNE ASSIGNMENTS, TO AUT RESEARCH CORPORATION, A CORPORATION OF DELAWARE i CONDUIT INSTALLATION N VEHICLES Application led March 27, 1923, Serial No. 627,953. Renewed ctober 2, 1930.

My present invention relates primaril to installations for transmitting fluid or uid pressure between the frame and a part movable relative thereto, such as an axle, or axles ot a vehicle, and is shown embodied in a system for lubricating, from a point of control on the chassis frame, bearings associated with an axle of a motor vehicle.

The conduit element through which fluid 0r pressure is transmitted between the chas frame and the axle should accommodate the relative movement ot' these parts, which occurs as the springs flex during travel of the vehicle. My invention has among its ob- I jects to provide a serviceable conduit of small diameter and low cost, which is easy to instal, on any of a wide variety ot' vehicles, re-

gardless what the construction or type of trame or springs, which provides the required fio yield or flexibility where fiexure should occur, yet is not subject to whipping, which remains tight even for relatively high fluid pressure, and which is substantially proof against rupture or leak from vibration of the moving vehicle even in hard usage. My invention provides a conduit in the above relation, which has no exposed unprotected parts likely to be bent or broken oli by the usual impacts encountered in ordinary usa-ge, which is inconspicious and which, while accomniodating the motion of the axle without undue strain at any part of the conduit, is nevertheless mechanically so strong and is retained in place upon the vehicle structure so securely not to be torn loose by the driving of the vehicle. through brush or brushes, which will suffer no substantial injury from bomlmrdment by ice or loose stones, that may be thrown up Jfrom the road by the movement of the vehicle thereon, which will not be tornofl' or damaged by mud Jfrozen thereon` and which will not be disturbed by handlng as by removing mud in cleaning the ve hicle.

"i According to my invention, the conduit inchides a yielding portion extending Jfrom the ,trame to a part which moves with one of the vehicle springs through a comparatively small range of displacement relative to the trame and extending thence in a run length-` lil wise ofthe spring toward the axle. The run along the spring which I designate the spring run, is disposed for displacement asa unit with the displacement or flexure of the spring structure at a plurality of oints and is constructed and arranged :for istributed flexure thereof, to avoid the localization of the bending or curving strain. Thus, the yielding conduit portion, first referred to, which I call the bridging run is connected between points on the chassis frame and the spring havingfa minimum relative displacement and the spring run extends along the spring, successive parts of the spring run having succes* sively eater ranges of displacement controlled y the spring flexure. The invention affords a liquid conduit effecting communication, in the manner referred to, between the chassis and an axle of vehicles generally, whether the spring equipment be of the semielliptic, the full-elliptic or the cantilever type.

It is preferred to dispose the entire length of the conduit in such manner as to be protected or shielded by the vehicle construction, against injury from impact or collision. In application at a front spring, I prefer to dispose the bridging run entirely between the upper flange of the channel iframe and the spring and to the rear of the forward spring bolt, and to dispose the spring run entirely back of the exposed outer edge of the spring.

The bridging run and the spring run may be formed as one integral conduit length, or they may be distinct elements joined by a coupling, which is anchored to the vehicle spring near a hinging part of the latter, or means distinct from a coupling may be provided for anchoring to the spring structure, a conduit part near the region of communication between the spring run and the bridging run.

The flexible portion of the bridging run, in certain preferred embodiments, may constitute either a solid metal tubular helix or a length of flexible hose, and may be protected by mounting within the channel frame of the chassis or by disposing it between the channel frame and the spring, to the rear of the spring hinge.

The spring run may be anchored to the spring structure at spaced points movable with corresponding parts of the spring structure, the run being sufficiently flexible between successive anchors to accommodate the relative movement therebetween. In a preferred embodiment, the anchor meansfor the entire length of the spring run, are all arranged to move in unison with the fieXure of some one leaf in the spring, while in other embodiments, different spring run anchors, are on different elements of the spring structure, appropriate means being provided t0 accommodate the relative slide or composite movement between anchor parts.

The kabove and other features of my invention may be more fully understood from the accompanying drawings, in which are shown some of various possible embodiments of the several features of the invention.

In the drawings,

Fig. 1 is an outline of a motor vehicle in elevation, indicating the general location of the installation, e

Fig. 2 is a fragmentary view on a larger scale of the front end of a channel frame and front spring, viewed from inside of the vehicle, Y

Fig. 3 is a transverse sectional viewtaken along the line 3-3 of Fig. 2,

Fig. 4 isv a plan view of the vehicle spring illustrating one type of spring run attachment, y

Fig. 5is a sectional view line 5-5 of Fig. 2,

Fig. 6 is a view in longitudinal section on an enlarged scale, illustrating a -preferred form of union connection between pipe elements,

Fig. 7 is a view similar to Fig. 4 of the plan of a modified formof spring run mount,

Fig. 8 is a transverse sectional View taken along the line 8-8 of Fig. 7,

Fig. 9 is a fragmentary view generally similar to Figs. 4 and 8 of a further modification,

Fig. 1() is a sectional view taken along the line 10-10 of Fig. 9,

Figs. 11 and 11a are views similar to Fig. 10 of further modifictions,

Fig. 12 is view similar to Fig. 2 of a modi fied form,

Fig. 13 is ay detail plan view of the helix in Fig. 12,

- Fig. 14 is a view similarV to Fig. 9 of an other embodiment,

Fig. 15 is a transverse sectional view taken along the line 15-15 of Fig. 14,

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view on a larger scale through the envelope supporting leaf,

Fig. 17 is a view similar to Fig. 12 of a further modification,

Fig. 18 is a plan view of the spring shown in Fig. 17,

Fig. 19 is a sectional view on an enlarged scale taken along the line 19-19 of Fig. 18,

taken along `the Fig. 2O is a View similar to Fig. 12 of a further modification,

Fig. 21 is a sectional view taken along the line 21-21 of Fig. 20,

22 is a view similar to Fig. 2O of anmodification for the general purpose of Fig.

Fig. 26 `is a sectional view taken along the line 26-26 of Fig. 25,

Fig. 27 is a view similar to Figs. 20 and 22 of another modification,

Fig. 27al and Fig.27b are detail sectional views respectivelv on the lines 27 1a-27a and 27 Z 27b of detail elements shown in Fig. 27,

Fig. 28 is a sectional view taken along the line 28-28 of Fig. 27,

Fig. 29 is a fragmentary view of a modification of the general type of construction of Fig. 27,

Fig. 30 is a plan view of the modification of Fig. 29,

Fig. 31 is a view similar to Fig. 29 of a further modification,

Fig. 32 is a sectional View taken along the line 32-32 of Fig. 31,

vFig. 33 is a fragmentary plan view of Fig. 31,

Fig. 34 is a fragmentary view of a spring, illustrating another alternative form of coupling and anchor between bridging and spring runs,

Fig. 35 is a sectional view taken along the line 35-35 of Fig. 34,

Fig. 36 is a fragmentary view of an alternative form of spring run,

Fig. 36a is a sectional view taken along the line 3fm- 36a of Fig. 36,

Fig. 37 is a fragmentary view of a modification of Fig. 36,`

Fig. 38 is a view similar to Fig. 17 of a further modification, y

Fig. 39 is a fragmentary detail view, illustrating a connection from chassis frame to the spring at the shackle end thereof,

Fig. 40 is a sectional view taken along the line 404O of Fig. 39,

Fig. 41 is a side elevation viewed from the exterior of the vehicle of another modification of conduit, bridging at the shackle end of thespring,

Fig. 42 is a sectional view taken along the line 42-42 of Fig. 41,

Fig. 43 is a rear elevation with parts broken away and parts in section, showing the application of conduit to a special type of platform spring construction,

lill

Lourens Fig. is a sectional view taken along the line fiafla of Fig. 4:3,

Fig. 45 is an elevation of a conduit application to a full elliptic spring,

Fig.` L16 is a view `similar to Fig. 45, illus trating a conduit application to a cantilever spring,

Fig. 4Go is a sectional View on an enlarged scale taken along the line 46a-46a of Fig. 46,

Fig. 11T is a view similar to Fig. a6 of a modified application to cantilever springs,

Fig. 48 is a side elevation on an enlarged scale of a detail of Fig. L17,

Fig. 119 is a sectional view taken along the line @r9-a9 of Fig. i8,

Fig. 50 indicates the lubrication of special bearings in a special type of chassis spring mount,

F ig. 51 is a fragmentary side elevation, il-

f lustrating the lubrication of the shackle link in a three quarter elliptic spring type of construction,

Fig. 52 is a view on an enlarged scale'taken along the line 52-52 of Fig. 51,

Fig. 53 is a view similar to Fig. 51 of a .modification thereof.

Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

In Fig. 1, I have shown in outline, a motor vehicle of conventional construction, including front and rear axles 1 and 2, a chassis 3, interposed front springs f1 and rear springs 5, each illnstratively of the semi-elliptic type. In the engine compartment is shown diagramm atically a source of lubricant pressure (i, operated as by handle 7 at the instrument board and communicating through conduit 8 with various chassis bearings as at E), through a conduit as at 10 with the front axle 1, and through a conduit 11 with the rear axle 2. The present invention is especially concerned with the fluid or liquid conduit 10 or 11.` which connects the chassis frame and an axle, and although shown illustratively applied in a lubricating installation, is of broader application in other relations where Huid or fluid pressure is to be transmitted between the chassis and one or more axles, as for instance, to fluid brake or speedometer operation.

Referring to Figs; 2 to 5, I have shown on a larger scale, a tra gmenta ry view of the frontend of the rehicle including` the axle a and spring e, secured thereto near its center, the spring composed of the usual superposed spring leaves. the upper or longest of which is curved in usual manner, at its forward end into eye 12. encircling the springv bolt Zi that extends through the forward end of the chan nel frame of the chassis and is retained as by lugs 14 against rotation in the frame.

In the present embodiment. there is interposed between4 the upper or longest leaf 15 of the spring and the leaf 16 therebelow, a

spring metal interleaf 17 extending length- Wiser of the spring, preferably the entire length thereof, from eye to eye and clamped in position by the same conventional U clips 18 which retain the spring leaves in the assembled spring structure and retained, moreover, against lateral displacement as by integral lateral ears 19 bent downward a ainst the edges of the spring. The interlea is of greater width than the spring leaves and provides a ledge 2O projecting or protruding outward from the rear or concealed edge of the spring, said ledge being cutaway as at 21 to aiiord clearance for the U clips 18. A run of fluid conduit Q2 extending lengthwise of the spring, and designated by me as spring run is anchored to the protruding ledge of the interleaf preferably by sheet metal clips 23 encircling thel conduit `at intervals and secured to the projecting ledge as by bolt and nut elements 24 extending through cor responding holes in the clipends and` in the ledge. The fluid conduit 22 isshown of solid metal. for instance, brass pipe of suitable internal diameter, which may be as small as 35 in internalY diameter, for liquid pressure transmission.` and 1/8 or more for gravity feed. As best shown in Figs. 2, 4 and 5 the spring run is of undulatory form and extends in a vertical plane beyond the ledge 20, the crests of the Waves of the spring run being anchored at the clips 23, the run drooping between consecutive clips to.` afford extra length forbending.`

The extreme clip 23 at or near the inlet of the. spring run is preferably in close proximity tothe eye 12 of the spring and is located, as will be seen, at a point of the spring which has but a relatively small range of displacement relative to the frame. The run of the conduit which connects between the chassis frame and the inlet of the spring run, and designated by meas bridging run. provides sufficient flexibility to accommodate, without whipping the relative movement between the chassis frame and the clip 23. In the specific embodiment shown in Figs.. 2 and` 3, the bridging run comprises a tubular metal helix 25 formed as an integral part of the tubular metal spring run 22, and anchored at one end by clip 23, which, in this case, constitutes the junction anchor clip, securing the communieating ends of the bridging and spring runs to the spring. The helix 25 extends transversely of the spring toward the outer edge thereof and preferably within the angle 26 between the spring s and channel frame f, and to the rear of the spring bolt Y), and is preferably inclined upward to be higher at its outer end 27 than at its inner end. A fitting 2S connects the upper end of the helix` 25 to the run a of the line, which extends longitudinally within the channel frame. The fitting 28 in the present embodiment, straddlesvthe edge of the lower flange 30 of the channel frame and has a lug 3l riveted as at and is attached to the line run r and the helix` 25 as by unions u. Preferably the fitting 28 has a T head 33 from which a short conduit 34 is supplied, which delivers to the spring bolt Z).

The union u (see Fig. 6) comprises a ferrule 35 brazed to the end of the pipe or conduit 36, which latter is, moreover, spread at its end 47 into a corresponding bevel in the ferrule. Encircling the shank of the ferrule 35 and held by yflange 38 of the fer-rule against loss, is a female or cap element 39, threaded internally for coaction with a corresponding threaded nipple 4() at the end of the coupling fitting 4l. If desired, a compressible washer 42 may be interposed between the ferrule and the coupling to assure a fluid-tight connection. The union shown and described is of general application, and is generally used wherever unions are indicated in any of the various embodiments. i

In operation of a vehicle equipped as described, the relative movement between the coupling element 28 constituting a fixed part on the channel frame and the junction anchor clip 23', which has but a small range of displacement with the spring, is accommodated by the inherent flexibility of the helix 25 and also by reason of its inclination, which permit respectively of an opening or closing hinging movement of the helix and a vibratory movement of the helix as a whole about its inner end as an axis. The clips 23 along the spring interleaf have successively greater ranges of displacement, each clip positively deflecting a corresponding portion of the spring run in conformity with the deflection of the corresponding portion of the spring, the extra length in the undulatory conduit 22 accommodating any relative movement between consecutive spring run clips 23. The bridging run provides the flexibility to accommodate the relative movement between the chassis frame and a portion of the spring near the eye thereof, and is yet too stiff to flap during movement of the vehicle, while the flexure'ofthe spring run is distributed over the length of the flexing spring. While I avoid excessive strain at any localized part of the conduit, it will be seen that I have no loose conduit parts likely tobe destroyed by flapping or to be torn off in traveling through brush, bushes and the like.

The arrangement of conduit described, is applicable to a substantial. variety of automobilesV including trucks and particularly in any relation where the angle between the channel frame and spring is sufliciently wide', as shown in the drawings, to accommodate the flexible helix 25. The helix, it will be noted, may be of small diameter in the order of that ofthe spring bolt l5, if desired, and since it has convolutions limited in number merely by the width of the spring, as best shownl in Fig. 3, itis amply flexible for the purpose.

As indicated in the drawings, the protruding ledge 2O on the interleaf and the clips 23, in turn, protruding therefrom, space the spring run 22 by a substantial interval from the contiguous edge of the spring, so that any water or mud thrown up, will drop freely from therebetween, avoiding the possibility ofstrain or rupture of the line by tearing loose in starting or during travel, mud frozen in place between the spring and the conduit.

It will be seen that my present embodiment of conduit entails no objectionable modification in the construction of the vehicle and that it is inherently of inexpensive and durable construction and that, moreover, it provides no ungainly or unconventional exposed parts, the Ventireconduit being substantially out of sight, and well protected against impact or collision, either from the front or the side of the vehicle.

In Figs. 7 and 8 is shown an alternative form of spring run mount. In lieu of the interleaf, one of the main leaves of the spring, for instance, the top leaf 43, is provided with integral lateral lugs 44, extending from the inner edge thereof and perforated for attachment of the spring run conduit 46 by clips 47 attached by bolts 45 in substantially the same manner as in Fig. 4. Preferably the protruding lugs or ledges in Figs. 7 and 8 are of considerably less thickness than the spring leaf, being made thin as at 48, to facilitate perforation thereof for attachment of the anchoring clip bolts 45.

In Figs. 9 and l0 is shown a further modification of spring run, in which the anchoring means comprises a succession of screws 49 threaded directly into the rear or concealed edge of one of the leaves of the spring, in the present embodiment illustratively applied to the first leaf 5() adjacent the main leaf, said screws being suitably distributed at intervals betwen the eye and the middle of the spring leaf. The protruding portion of each screw extends through a bushing 5l and through the ends of a spring clip 52, which are clamped by screw head 53 against the edge of the spring. The clips 52 are similar to those in Figs. 4 and 5 heretofore described, but are shown, in the present embodiment, with each conduit-encircling loop, above the securing member. The clip 52 is, moreover, shown with an integral lug 52 bent over against one side of the polygonal screw head to lock the screw. InFig. 9 I have illustratively shown the spring run conduit as encased in a helically wound metallic armor 54 for added protection, and said run may have an undulatory form similar to that heretofore described.

In Fig. 11 is shown another embodiment of spring run. In this case, the upper leaf of 'the spring is shown provided with a longi- CII itl

ananas tudinal groove in the rear or concealed edge thereof, into which is secured a spring metal anchor blade 56 protruding beyond the edge of the spring and flexing with the spring. The clips 57 for anchoring the spring run 58 are mounted upon the protruding anchoring leali and are illustratively shown secured thereto by means of eyelets 59. In this construction, as shown in Fig. 11 a strict uniformity of the main leaf throughout its length is preserved, so that no irregularity exists tending to start a crack at a change in spring crosssection.

ln the alternative embodiment of Fig. 11a, the spring run conduit iii is lodged within a groove 55! longitudinally of the main leaf and is retained against escape from the groove, not only by the spring U clips 18', but also by peening the edges of the groove over the spring run as at 56 at suitable intervals.

lin each the various embodiments of spring run mounts, heretofore described, it Will be seen that the conduit is mounted entirely upon one of the leaves or upon a special interleat in the spring, and the flexure of the spring controls that of the spring run.

In the embodiments of Figs. 12 to 16, the spring run does not extend in a vertical plane to the rear of the spring, but is disposed on top ot the main leaf of the spring. For this purpose, the conventional spring is modified by adding to the construction thereof, a top or envelope anchoring leaf 60, comprising a blank of spring metal superposed over the main spring leaf and having integral lateral tongues 61 tucked about the edges of said leaf, and extending under the lower surface thereof, and clamped by the spring clips 62 in position into a unitary spring structure. The metal of the anchor leaf is drawn to form circular studs or bosses 63 preferably at uni .form intervals, which are slit as at 64 to form tongues. the free edges of which are bent over to provide gripping ears for the spring run. The length of spring run between nach pair of successive bosses is curved proterably into an S formation 67, as shown, to provide flexibility for accommodating the differential movement between the bosses with the flexure of the spring.` said S formation, moreover, providing a minimum width of conduit between the jawsof the spring clips 62, which are midway l'ietween successive studs 63. To avoid crushingof theconduit 68 by pressure of the spring V velop leaf 60, alford a space 72 thereabove,

below sleeve 71 through which the spring run extends with sufficient clearance to prevent injury thereto. n

In the present embodiment, the bridging conduit is shown as `a generally helical tubular solid metal conduit 73 within the channel frame f of the vehicle anchored to the frame at its inlet end by a fitting 74, and extending downward past the lower ange` 75 of the channel to the rear of the spring bolt and in proximity thereof and connected as by a union u to the integral upward extending end 76 beyond the extreme anchor stud 63 of the springrun, which latter stud serves as the junction anchor clip for communicating ends of the bridging run and spring run.

The helix 7 3 in the present embodiment is shown of generally rectangular convolutions 73 (see Fig; 13) to fit Within the channel traine f. The bridging connection between coupling 7 4 and junction anchor stud 63', and more particularly the helical` portion 73 thereof, has flexibility to accommodate both the vertical and the lateral components of movementof stud 63 with spring flexure. In this accommodation, the helix 73 durin spring lexure will alternately contract and expand axially, and its axis will concurrently oscillate. The anchoring studs 63 of the spring run 68 on the envelop leaf 60move substantially as a unit with the upper spring leaf andthe extra length of conduit between consecutive studs, freely accommodates, any relative movement between said studs during spring flexure.

The present embodiment of mount, it will be seen, affords ample protection for the conduit, the flexible portion of the bridging run being completely encased within the channel frame and the spring runbeing on top of the spring and wholly between the sides thereof, so that it cannot be injured by any impact, nor become caught by any brush through which the vehicle may pass. Moreover, the vertical portion 76 of the conduit between the helix 73 and the stud 63 is fully protected behind the spring bolt b. The brid-gingconnection shown, is usefuln in any relation where the channel .traine is sufficiently widein proximity to the end of the spring to' accommodate the helix. This type of conduit is particularly inexpensive and easily applied without modification in the style and construction of the vehicle.

In Figs. 17, 18 and 19 is shown another modified form of conduit run along the top4 of the spring, in which, in lieu of the envelope anchoring leaf shown in Fig. 16,1 employ a spring metal protective blade 77 superposed over the spring run, and provided with a longitudinal groove or channel 78` pressed into its lower surface, in which the springl run 79 is lodged. The s ring run may, as.

shown, be of undulatory ormi` The protective leaf. is clamped against the upper spring leaf by the usual spring clips 81, to form a unitary structure with the spring, the clips being modied as in Fig. 15, by the addition of spacing washers 70, which prevent any possible crushing of the channel 78 or the spring run 79 confined therein. rlhe sides or legs of spring clips 81 hold the protective leaf against lateral shift. Preferably the top or spring run protective leaf 77 is slit longitudinally in the regions of the spring clips and near the lateral edges of the leaf as at 82', the'short strips between the slits and the contiguous edges being bent up to form spring loops'82, to provide further frictional hold of the protective leaf against the washers 70, with resilience to accommodate the relative displacement of the clips and the spring leaves inthe flexure of the latter, during travel of the vehicle. AThe spring run 79, it is seen, is thus entirely enclosed between the top leaf 80 and the protective leaf 77 and is, therefore, adequately protected against injury. As best shownin Fig. 17, the top leaf 77 may terminate as at 83 near spring eye 84, and the conduit may curve upward as at 85 beyond the protective leaf for communication with an appropriatev flexible Abridging run element (not shown).

1t is understood that the lateral gripping tongues 61 of the envelop leaf in Fig. V16, may be omitted, the anchor leaf being assembled with the spring in the manner shown in Figs. 17 to 19; or vice-versa, the gripping tongue of Fig. 16 may be used, if desired, in the em bodiment of Figs. 17 to 19.

In the embodiment ofFigs. 20 and 21, the bridging run comprises a metallic helical tube 86 within the channel frame f, and with its axis extending generally longitudinally thereof. rl`he bridging run is connected to the run r of the line -by a coupling tting 87 anchored to the channel frame. A rigid coupling fitting 88 connects the delivery end of helix 86 to the spring s and includes a substantially vertical tube 89 in proximity to and back of the spring bolt and extending transversely past the lower flange 90 Vof the channel frame. The fitting 88 in the present embodiment comprises al casting with an integral transverse web 91 superposed over and extending laterally beyond the spring as at 92 and `attached as by bolts and nuts 93 to projecting ledges V94 at opposite edges of a spring interleaf generally similar to that shown Vin Fig. 4.V Thus, the castingY 88 constitutes a combined junction anchor clip and coupling between communicating ends of the bridging and spring runs.

In the present embodiment in lieuof the solid metal tube spring run of Fig. 4, I have shown by way of example, a spring run 95 of flexible hose. A preferred type 'of hose in-` clud es a metal lining 96 constructed by spirally winding and interfoldingV contiguous edges 97 of a strip of metal, said lining being enclosed'in a woven steel sheath 98. The hose just described is not my invention, but constitutes an article of commerce. Since thehose 95 is ofgreater flexibility than the tubular metal run shown in Fig. 4, it is pre- 'j ferred lto provide only small extra length be'- tween successive clips 28, the conduit drooping less as shown, than in the case of the solid metal spring run, thereby avoiding the possibility of flappingand distortion of the conduit, and yet permitting it to bend with the spring.

1n the present embodiment also, it will be seen that no part of theconduit is inconspicuous and moreover, that allv parts of the conduit are protected against impact.` 1n operation, as the spring fiexes the coupling fitting 89 paritaires of a complex movement having a vertical and lateral component in the plane of tlie spring. The helix 86. affords the flexibility to accommodate this composite movement, since it will flex about its axis and elongate, depending on the direction of the applied force.

1n the embodiment of Fig. 22, the iiexible portion of the bridging connection is disposed in a direction generally longitudinally of the vehicle between the channel frame and the spring. Specifically,the helix 100 formed of a metal tube, is anchored at its inlet end to a stud 101 secured as by a bolt and nut connection 102 to a bracket 103, which is in turn riveted as at 104 tothe channel frame. `At its delivery end, that is, at the region of communication with the spring run, the helix 100 is anchored toa stud 105 similar to stud 101, which is secured to a `iiange 109 on a stamped metal web 106vextending across the spring and provided withl lugs107 similar to those in Figs. 20 and 21 and similarly secured to the protruding ledges 108 on the interleaf. The stud anchoring flanges 103` and 109 are preferably normallysubstantially parallel to each other, as shown. For added security, the studs 101 and 10571nay be provided with helical grooves 110, upon which the ends turns of tlie'helical conduit 100 are threaded, as shown. The inlet end of the helix 100 is supplied from the main run 7 through a T fitting 111 to which it is connected as by union u, the other branch 112 of the T fitting being connected by conduit 113 to bolt b, substantially as in Fig. 2. If desired-,the helix 100 may be enclosed in a rubber tube 114, telescoped thereover 'from 'the inlet end thereof, prior to assembly and frictionally held at the stud ends. The rubber tube 114 protects the helix from possible injury in prying loose, mud calring thereat, in the absence of the enclosure. TheV flexibility of the bridging run 100, it will be seein-is confined entirely between studs 101 and 105 and no strain will occur in operation, on the connecting union a. J The outlet 115 from the helix 100 isconnected as by union u to the spring run 116 ofthe line, which is ilico izo

Leemans lustratively shown, as substantially the interleaf coustructiziin of Fig. 4.

In various embodiments thus far described, the junction anchor clip which secures the junction between the bridging and the spring runs to the spring, is attached to the same leaf of the spring as the length of the spring run. In Figs. l and 20, these parts are connected to an intel-leaf; in Figs. 11 and 11a the top leaf serves this purpose, and in Figs. 12 to 18, an auxiliary upperleaf is used as a conduit anchor. In many relations, this type of construction is preferred, particularly, since it eliminates the need for compensation for the relative sliding movement between different leaves or spring clips.

I have, however, shown in the embodiments of Figs. 23 to 28 and 30 to 35, desirable arrangements, in which the delivery end of the bridging run `and the spring run may have relative sliding displacement in (nieration.

In 23 which is in many respects similar to the embodiment of Fig. 22, the anchoring web 100', which anchors stud 105 to the 25 delivery end of helix 100', is not secured to the interleaf, but is looped as at 117 about the bolt bushing 117 and clamped Within spring rye 119. The stud 105 is formed of reduced diameter near its base as at 119, leaving one or more loose convolutions 1002 ofthe helix 100',

which provide extra length and extra flexibility `to compensate for the relative sliding movement between stud 105', which hinges about the bolt and moves with the tlexure of the top leaf, and the contiguous spring run anchor clip 118 which slides with the interleaf relative to the top leaf during spring lexure.

rl`o retain the anchor clip in place by coil.- ing it about the spring eye bushing with the spring' eye, as in Fig. 23, entails a modification from the usual manufacture of the sprin and where such change is objectionable, alternative constructions, such as are shown in Figs. 24, 25 and 26 may be employed. In Fig. 24, I have shown a junction anchoring clip 1.20, combined into a unit with a fitting 121, which connects bridging and spring runs f not shown in Fig. 24). The clip comprises a stamped metal yoke 122 straddling the edges of the spring near the boltb and having riveted or Welded thereto as at 12?, a thin strap 124 encircling the spring eye and welded at its opposite end to a bolt 126, which extends transversely through a cross bolt 127 connecting the legs of the U-shaped bra clret 122. By rotation of nut 128 at the outer end of bolt 126, strap 124 is tightened securely about the spring eye 125. In the present embodiment, I have illustratively shown in lieu ofthe stud 105, an alternative coupling member 129 secured by means of a rivet 130 to the anchoring flange 131 of the clip. The coupling in this case provides an inlet 132 for at- 5 tachment of an appropriate flexible conduit which may be the helix shown in Fig. 22, `or any suitable alternative flexible hose (not shown) and has an outlet nipple 133 to which the spring run (not shown) is connected. If the spring run in this embodiment, is mounted on an interleaf or in any relation other than on the upper leaf, it is preferred to provide extra length or flexibility to accommodate the relative motion between the coupling 129 and the spring run.

In Figs. 25 and 2G, the junction anchoring clip comprises a unitary metal stamping, having a base web 134, substatianlly of the Width of the spring and provided with integral bent up forwardly extending lateral eyes 135 and 136 encircling the spring eye bushing 137, the latter' being lengthened somewhat to take the compression of the spring bolt and nut assembly 138 through the forging F, so that the eyes 135 and 136 of the anchoring clip are securely held without pressure or strain thereon, between the spring eye and the forging. The free or rear end of the anchoring clip web 134 is clamped down upon the upper leaf of the spring by the bolt 139 of the end spring clip 1.40. The stud holding element corresponding to element 131 in Fig. 24, as shown in the drawings, constitutes a tongue 1.41 struck up from the web 134.

In Figs. 27 and 28 is shown a further modification, the bridging run of which includes a solid metal looped tube 142, which maybe a helix, anchored as at 143 to the channel frame f and well to the rear of the spring bolt Z) and communicating through a coupling 144 with a length of flexible hose 145., preferably of the typeshown in Fig. 20 and heretofore described. A leaf spring 146 preferably generally triangular in form for properly distributed flexure, engages `the coupling 144 at its free end and is anchored as at 147 to the bottom of the channel frame and flexes toward the left in Fig. 27 to maintain the flexible conduit 145 normally substantially taut against flapping or sagging. In the embodiment shown, the coupling 144 has an enlarged integral collar 148 firmly secured by upsetting over the edge of a Vcorresponding opening 149 in the spring 146. The conduit elements 142 and 145 are attached to coupling 144 by corresponding union elements n threaded thereon. The flexible hose 145 extends between the channel frame f and the spring s and preferably substantially in the median plane between the exposed and concealed edges thereof, in a direction generally longitudinally of the frame. In this particular embodiment, I have indicated a spring run to the rear of the concealed edge ofthe spring and to be described more fully below. The bridging and spring runs are connected together by a combined coupling and junction anchoring clip casting having a U-shaped passage 150 in a generally horizontal plane. The casting clip `has an integral lug 151 contact-ing the spring eye 152 and secured thereto preferably by screws 153 threaded into the spring eye. The present embodiment, although of general application, has particular utility as applied to types of vehicles in which the space between the front end of the frame and the spring is too narrow to accommodate the helix shown in some other embodiments.

The coupling casting C, it is readily under'- stood, executes a movement corresponding to that of the spring eye 152, tending to shift the contiguous end of hose 145 upward and toward the right, and, if the opposite end of the hose were fixed, to exert substantial tension thereon. Since the type of flexible hose employed, however, lacks flexibility in a longitudinal direction, the Vtension due to the clip movement is transmitted through the hose to the spring 146 and the metal loop conduit 142, which readily flex to the extent required. Spring 146, as heretofore noted, maintains the relatively long bridging run against excessive slack or flapping.

In this embodiment, closely wound Acoil steel spring 154 is shown supported as by loops or clips 155 retainedin position upon an interleaf similar to that shown in Fig. 4. rI`he spring run of the conduit may be a metallic pipe 157 anchored to the spring 154 by suitable supporting clips 158, preferably midway between consecutive wire carrier supporting clips 155. In the flexure of the spring s, the relatively heavy spring 154 willk flex substantially uniformly with the flexure of the interleaf in a generally vertical direction, and will correspondingly displace the clips `158 thereon, by which the spring run 157 is supported, thereby distributing the strain. The relative sliding movement between the junction fitting C, which moves with the upper spring lea-f, and the contiguous spring run clip 155 which moves with the interleaf, is accommodated by the longitu dinal flexibility of the carrier spring 154, which permits limited longitudinal shift of the spring run 157 relative to the interleaf. An extra loop 156 in the spring run is shown nea-r the axle thereof, to accommodate the longitudinal shift of the run just noted, although the flexibility may be distributed lengthwise of the spring run in manner previously described.

A modied form ofthe embodiments of Figs. 27 and 28 preferred in many relations 2,2, the junction anchor clip and the various spring run clips, are all mounted on one andk the same leaf in the spring, in this case the interleaf, the Yflexure of which is controlling, the need for accommodating relative sliding displacement being thus eliminated.

In Figs. 31 to 33 is shown a'further modification of combined junction anchor member and coupling. In this embodiment, the spring bushing 164 is provided with an integral circular flange 165 at one end thereof, protruding beyond the spring s, the clevis 166 for the spring bolt b being,1of course, correspondingly widened. The flange 165 is provided withnipples 167 and 168 to the rear of bolt b, and connected by a transverse duct or passage 169 through the flange. The flexible hose or equivalent bridging run 170 is connected to nipple 167 by means of a union u and the spring run 171, which in the present embodiment, is shown of the same type as that shown in Fig. 4 is connected to nipple 168 by a union u. To accommodate the relative mov-ement between collar 165, whichrotates with the spring eye on theend of the top leaf, and the contiguous spring run clip 171, which is displaced with the flexure of the interleaf, the intervening conduit portion is shown curved into a complete loop 172, which provides sufiicient flexibility forthe purpose and yet will not lash or whip. This loop is shown in a vertical plane, but may bedisposed, if desired, in a horizontal plane on top of the spring.

In Figs. 34 and 35 is shown a modified form of combined junction anchor clip and coupling element. f `This element comprises a casting including a generally S-shaped conduit 174, with an integral llug 175 clamped to the side of the spring clip 17 6 nearest bolt Z) by means of spring clip bolt 177.- The junction clip 174 is also provded with integral supporting fingers 178 projecting inward over the spring,'fro1n opposite sides of the spring clip 176 and serving to hold the junction clip against rocking about bolt 177 In this case, the inlet nipple 179 extends obliquely above and somewhat to the side of the spring bolt177 in a vertical plane be-V tween Lthe edges of the spring and serves for connection as by a union (not shown) to the flexible bridging run (not shown) while the outlet nipple 180, as shown extends generally horizontally back of the concealed edge of the spring s, preferably with substantial gap for direct anchoring thereto of a spring run mounted, for instance, as in Fig. 31.

In Figs. 36 and 36a, the upper spring leaf i 181 of the spring is shown formed with the spring runV of the conduit within the body thereof. For this purpose, the upper leaf is of composite construction, being formed by welding together two leaf elements 182 and 183 of half thickness, in face to face contact, said leaves having lregistering longitudinal grooves 184 and 185 to form the conduit 186. The composite leaf is'provided with a nipple 187 near the bolt end thereof, which may be welded thereto and communicates with a transverse bore 188 through leaf element 182, in turn, communicating with the length of the spring run 186. The opposite end of the spring run has an outlet nipple 189 similar to nipple 187 and located near the axle. In the present embodiment, an elbow fitting 190 is thrca ded into inlet nipple 187 and through a union u communicates with the exible element 191 of the bridging run, shown in this case, as a flexible clement of the type indicated in Fig. Q0, although, of course, substantially any of the other types of flexible elements heretofore described may be employed.

.In this embodiment. it will be seen that the spring run is entirely concealed within the main spring leaf and, of course, Hexes as a unit therewith leaf, any two selected points on the spring run channel 186 ilexing as a unit with the leaf and the intervening portions of the conduit affording the requisite flexibility to accommodate the relative movement between such points.

In Fig. 3T is shown a modification of the type of spring run just described, in which the longitudinal channel 192 in the interior ofthe upper spring leaf is continued as at 193, substantially about the spring bolt Z1 and within the spring eye 194. In this case, the bridging run is anchored direct to the spring eye by means of an outlet fitting 195 extending transversely into the top of the eye and threaded thereinto and through ln'lshing 19T. and having a bore 196 communicating with the bridging run channel 1193-492, as shown. In this case, it will be seen that the need for the special nipple 187 is obviated, the spring eye 194 and bushing 19T affording sufficient thickness for securely anchoring the fitting 195. In the use of the lat-ter embodiment, the rotary movement of the spring eye accommodated by the limited flexibility of the bridging run, while the spring run of the conduit being entirely within the interior ofthe spring, flexes as a unit with the spring and is, of course, amply protected by the body of the spring against injury.

In Fig. 38 shown an alternative embodiment of spring run. in many respects similar to that shown in Figs. Q7 and 2S. In this case.` a heavy coiled spring Q00 is anchored by loops or clips 201, mounted upon the regular U-clips 202. and secured in place thereon by the U-clip bolts 203. At preferably uniform intervals along the wire carrier 200 are mounted clips 294, three such clins being shown between consecutive U- clips. the clips 204 supportingr the spring run :7.95 of the conduit. In this embodiment, it is seen, the spring run .is connected neither to a regular or special leaf of the sprine, but is supliorted from the U-clips. In operation, the wire carrier 200 will not only flex r with the vehicle spring, but will elongate or shorten between each U-clip and the contiguous spring run clip 204, at either side thereof, to accommodate the relative movedescribed, the fluid is conveyed from the i chasers frame to the axle through a course or i conduit, which includes a bridging run and a spring run in series therewith, the bridging run, in general, extending from a point on the chassis frame to a point on the spring in proximity to the bolt end thereof, that is, to a point on the spring having but a relatively small range of displacement, during lexure of the spring, while the spring run extends in a direction generally lengthwise of the spring and is associated with or connected to the spring, to :flex in a manner controlled by the spring flexure, each point on the spring run being deflected through a range corresponding to the lexure of the corresponding portion of the spring length. z In other words, the bridging run accommodates the relative displaccmentbetwecn a point on the spring near the eye thereof and the chassis frame, while the spring run accommodates the differential flexure between various parts of the length of the spring.

It will be understood that although I have shown in many of the embodiments, a spe cilic form of bridging run with aspecilic form of spring run, any of the various types of spring runs shown, may be advantageous ly usedin a conduit with substantially an one of the bridging runs disclosed. It wil also be understood that the various junction clips or members, `which serve to connect the bridging and spring runs, are not limited in their applicability to the specilic relations in which they are shown in the drawings, but may be used more or less interchangeably between spring and bridging runs of various types.

The various installations shown, it will be' seen, are in inobtrusive position on the ve hicle, and do not interfere with the application of a bumper or of the splash apron (noi shown) commonly used to cover the forward end of the chassis frame.

Although I have shown in each case, the

connection extending to the front axle, it

will be understood particularly, as suggested .in Fig. 1 of the drawings, that the conduit connections shown are generally applicable for transmitting fluid or pressure between the chassis frame and the rear axle, past the bolt end of the rear spring.

'lhe invention is not limited in its appli from liexure of the vehicle springs is to be accommodated without excessive strain on the conduit. In particular, the invention is applicable for the operation of fluid brakes, or for establishing a fluid pressure 'transmitting connection between a mechanism operated by revolution of a road wheel and a speed or distance registering element on the instrument board.

In Figs. 39'to 42 are shown further embodiments, in which the bridging run is connected with the spring at the shackle end rather than the bolt end thereof. Figs. 39 and 40 show a front spring c having its forward end connected to the usual spring bolt (not shown) and its rear end sustained from the usual shackle link 206 which has an upper bolt 207 through the channel frame f and a lower orl spring bolt 209 mounting the rear spring eye 210. Y In this embodiment, a special `metal arm 211 is riveted as at 212 to the upper flange of the channel frame, near shackle link 206 and extends inward toward the center of the vehicle, and has preferably an integral downward tongue 213 at its end. The run of the line 1 on the channel frame is tapped at an appropriate T fitting 214.v tap conduit 215 extending longitudinally of arm 211 and being stapled thereto, and to tongue 213the'reof, and thence extending in an integral solid metal helical tube 216 obliquely toward the shackle end of the spring, where it is shown attached to the spring structure by a clip 217. A union u connects the bridging run helix end 219 beyond clip 217 to the spring run 220, the latter illustratively of the type shown in Fig. 4, mounted upon an interleaf, upon which clip 217 is preferably also supported. The spring run, in this case, of course, extends along the rear half of the spring forward from the shackle end to the axle. If desired, in this case as in Fig. 22, the helix 216 may be covered with a rubber or other flexible cylindrical enclosure (not shown) to protect it against injury from rough handling, as in the removal of caked mud..

The bracket arm 211 is preferably of substantial length, so that the helix 216 can be suiliciently long to aord the flexibility required to accommodate, without strain, the displacement of the bridge anchoring clip 217, with the combined flexure of the spring and lateral shifting of the spring bolt on the shackle link. The helical bridging run, it is seen, is amply protected back of the channel frame between the front and rear of the vehicle, and the spring run, as in other embodiments, is protected back of the concealed edge of the spring.

manner by bolt 221 extending through casting 222, within the interior of the channel.

The bridging run from the channel frame.

to the spring comprises a helically curved metallic conduit` 223 substantially coaxial with the upper bolt of the shackle and at the forward or exposed end thereof, connected by. union u with a coupling elbow 224 secured'by bolt 225 to the outer shackle link 226 and intermediate the'ends thereof. rfhe end of coupling 224 which extends substantially parallel to bolt 221 is connected by aunion u with a second helix 227 substantially coaxial with the lowe bolt or spring eye 223, to the rear of the inner shackle link 231. The delivery end of helix 227 is anchored to the spring s near the shackle end thereof as at 230 and communicates with the spring run, which may be identical with any of the runs here-- toforc described.

It will be seen that in operation the bric ging run accommodates the relative movement between the Yframe and clip 230, including the movement of the shackle link. In this action, helix 223 accommodates the hinging movement at bolt 221, while helix 227 accommodates the hinging movement of the spring eye.

at the rear of the spring and may, if desired, be further protect-ed by a stirrup guard 227 of stamped metal and looped under the helix and having inwardly extending tongue 2272, Y

at 2233 at its lower end to accommodate the movement of link 226.l The bridging run which includes the helices 223 and 227 and the connecting coupling 224 being anchored only to one of the shackle links 226, is not affected by any relative shift between the links 226 and 231 due to uneven wear, or in effecting adj ust-ment.

In Figs. 43 to 53 are shown certain applications of fluid conduits to vehicles equipped with special types of springs, other than the semi-elliptic springs, shown in the other embodiments. Figs. 43 and 44 show a so-.called platform spring application employed on certain types of vehicles. Semi-elliptic lateral rear springs 230 of substantially ordinary construction are secured at their middle points to the axle (not shown). Y The upper or main leaf 231 of each spring is provided with an eye 232 which encircles then bolt 233 at the upper end of a compound The lower helix 227 is entirely concealed 

